Athletic monitoring garment with non-transmitting, non-receiving sensor systems and methods

ABSTRACT

A garment including a breath sensor module. The breath sensor module includes a stretchable sensor configured to respond to at least one of expansion and contraction of a torso of an individual wearing the garment. The breath sensor module also may include an electronics module. The electronics module includes, for example, a processor and a haptic feedback device. In response to the processor determining that the individual&#39;s breathing meets predetermined criteria based on the response of the stretchable sensor, the haptic feedback device produces haptic feedback such that the individual is reminded to breathe. Further, the breath sensor module does not include a transmitter or a receiver configured to transmit or receive data outside of the breath sensor module. Advantageously, this allows for streamlined use, and less-intrusive reminders to the individual wearing the garment, without the complexities of signal transmission or receiving.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application of prior U.S. applicationSer. No. 15/862,299, filed Jan. 4, 2018, the disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to streamlinedathletic monitoring garments having breath sensor modules, includingflexible sensor systems, such as printed capacitive sensor systems usedin substrate applications. Haptic feedback is provided to the user,without complicated user-interfaces or other connected devices.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Athletic activity is important to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and isa source of entertainment for many people. In recent years athletes haveemployed additional tools in an effort to assist in tracking andcoaching workouts. For example, GPS and accelerometer based devices maybe used to provide speed and distance information when running. Fitnessmonitoring devices have also been developed that are capable ofrecording information about an individual's performance during anathletic activity using sensors, and in some cases providing feedbackabout the individual's performance. Some fitness monitoring devicesemploy sensors attached to the individual's body, while other fitnessmonitoring devices rely on sensors attached to a piece of athleticequipment. Such sensors may be capable of measuring various physicaland/or physiological parameters associated with the individual'sphysical activity.

But with respect to providing this information, existingathletic/fitness activity monitoring, training, and coaching systemssuffer from a number of drawbacks. Many existing systems are limited inthe amount of feedback or coaching that they can give, and may be bulky,heavy, and not integrated into a piece of equipment. For example, manysystems require a separate piece of equipment, such as a smart phone,smart watch, other stand-alone wearable device, or the like. Thesesystems are not suitable for monitoring in many real world athleticcompetitive or training sessions.

Additionally, many current devices require a high level of user input orengagement, which may detract from an easy transition to and maintaininguse of a monitoring garment. Further, many current devices do notauto-detect activity; that is, a user must “tell” the device that theyare starting an activity they would like to monitor. Further, for someactivity, such as yoga, the feedback may be distracting or not providedin a convenient manner (e.g., having to pull up a smartphone screenduring yoga practice). Individualized activity, particularly that whichrelies on mental awareness and focus, such as yoga, will benefit fromthe systems and methods described below.

Additionally, existing garment sensors may measure strain, displacement,and the like but also suffer from several drawbacks. In the case ofstretchable garment sensors, e.g., sensors printed using conductive ink,cracks or fissures may develop in one or more of the sensor layers.Cracks may reduce accuracy of the sensor signal, or destroy the signalcompletely.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

What is needed are athletic activity training, and coaching, systems andmethods having improved capabilities over existing systems, thusoffering individuals engaged in athletic activities and other interestedobservers better tools to improve their performance through feedback. Inthis regard, sensors integrated within garments offer an advantage,especially with regard to base layers of clothing worn close to theskin, by providing properly fitting garments that move with the body,allowing sensors to collect accurate and precise data, without beingoverly intrusive or distracting. Also needed are improvements inlayering and printing sensors, in particular capacitive sensors. Strainrelief systems in printed sensor systems, particularly capacitive sensorsystems are also required.

At least some of the embodiments of the present invention satisfy theabove needs and provide further related advantages as will be madeapparent by the description that follows.

Some embodiments are directed to a garment including a breath sensormodule. The breath sensor module includes a stretchable sensorconfigured to respond to at least one of expansion and contraction of atorso of an individual wearing the garment. The breath sensor modulealso may include an electronics module. The electronics module includes,for example, a processor and a haptic feedback device. In response tothe processor determining that the individual's breathing meetspredetermined criteria based on the response of the stretchable sensor,the haptic feedback device produces haptic feedback such that theindividual is reminded to breathe. Further, the breath sensor moduledoes not include a transmitter or a receiver configured to transmit orreceive data outside of the breath sensor module. Advantageously, thisallows for streamlined manufacturing and use, and less-intrusivereminders to the individual wearing the garment, without thecomplexities of signal transmission or receiving.

In some embodiments, the predetermined criteria consists of adetermination that the individual has not taken a breath within apre-defined time threshold. In some embodiments, the predeterminedcriteria consists of a determination that the individual is notbreathing in a regular pattern. The haptic feedback is a vibrationpattern in some embodiments. Further, the electronics module isseparable from the breath sensor module. In this regard, ability tolaunder the garment is improved, and more flexible charging of theelectronics module is possible (i.e., the individual may continuewearing the garment while the electronics module is charging).

The electronics module may include a switch operable by the individualto begin monitoring of the breath by the stretchable sensor. Forexample, it may be a toggle switch or other suitable switch, or thestretch sensor module may also be configured as an input, e.g., theindividual may tap a pattern or press on the sensor for a predeterminedamount of time.

In some embodiments, the stretchable sensor is a capacitive sensor. Asdescribed herein, the stretchable sensor (e.g., capacitive sensor) mayinclude a stretchable substrate, a first conductor assembly disposed onthe substrate, and a second conductor assembly disposed on the substrateand positioned above the first conductor assembly such that the secondconductor assembly overlaps the first conductor assembly.Advantageously, a connection between the stretchable sensor and theelectronics module includes a strain relief member configured to isolatethe stretchable sensor such that it measures only the stretching of thesensor in a direction configured to measure the breathing of theindividual. This helps to aid in removing concern about motionartifacts, e.g., the requirement for compensation due to difference inindividual posture, for example when in different yoga poses.

In some embodiments, the wherein the breath sensor module does notinclude an audible output or visual output configured to providefeedback to remind the individual to breathe.

The garment includes a band of elastic material configured to encirclethe torso of the individual when the garment is worn by theindividual—the stretchable sensor extends longitudinally along the band.The electronics module is encapsulated in fabric of the garment suchthat it is not visible from the exterior of the garment when theindividual is wearing it, in some embodiments. This also provides anaesthetic appeal of the garment, camouflaging the electronics so as notto detract from the appearance of the garment.

Some embodiments are directed to a method for providing feedback aboutrespiratory activity to an individual wearing a garment (e.g., garmentwith a breath sensor module). The method includes sensing an eventindicating a start of monitoring of the individual's respiratoryactivity, monitoring the individual's respiratory activity, anddetermining that the individual's breathing meets predetermined criteriabased on the monitoring. In sensing of the event, the user inputrequired to begin monitoring of the activity is minimized, in someinstances to zero user input required. In some embodiments, the eventsensed comprises one of a user input, determining that the user isbreathing, and detection of the garment being worn. In response todetermining that a pre-defined respiratory event occurred, the methodfurther includes providing immediate feedback to the user through thebreath sensor module. The breath sensor module does not include atransmitter or a receiver configured to transmit or receive data outsideof the breath sensor module, in some embodiments. In some embodiments,the predetermined criteria consists of a determination that theindividual has not taken a breath within a pre-defined time threshold.In some embodiments, the criteria is that the individual is breathing inan irregular pattern. In some embodiments, the immediate feedback ishaptic feedback in the form of a vibration pattern.

In some embodiments, the method includes receiving a user inputindicating a finish of monitoring of the individual's respiratoryactivity. The electronics module is separable from the breath sensormodule, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the garment comprisesan athletic bra, and the electronics module is encapsulated in thefabric of the garment such that it is not visible from an exterior ofthe garment when the individual is wearing it.

Some embodiments are directed to a respiration monitoring system. Insome embodiments, the system includes a garment configured to be worn byan individual, a stretchable sensor attached to the garment, a processoroperatively coupled to the sensor; and a breath sensor moduleoperatively coupled to the processor. The stretchable sensor isconfigured to transmit a non-transitory respiration activity signal tothe processor, and in response to the respiration activity signal theprocessor determines that a predetermined criteria is met. Further, inresponse to determining that the predetermined criteria is met, theprocessor causes the breath sensor module to provide immediate hapticfeedback to the individual wearing the garment.

Advantageously, and distinct from conventional approaches, thesefeatures contribute to a reduced cost of manufacture, and easiermanufacturing/assembly of a finished garment. Further, without complexelectronics and transmission, there is a marked power consumptioncompared to conventional monitoring garments.

Additional features of embodiments of the invention will be set forth inthe description that follows, and in part will be apparent from thedescription, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Both theforegoing general description and the following detailed description areexemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide furtherexplanation of the invention as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS/FIGURES

The accompanying figures, which are incorporated herein, form part ofthe specification and illustrate embodiments of the present invention.Together with the description, the figures further serve to explain theprinciples of and to enable a person skilled in the relevant arts tomake and use the invention.

FIGS. 1A and 1B are illustrations of an individual using a garmentincluding a breath sensor module according to an embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a capacitive sensor system according toembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 3 an illustration of a capacitive sensor system according toembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a capacitive sensor system according toembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a partial exploded view of the capacitive sensor system shownin FIG. 4 according to embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a partial exploded view of a capacitive sensor systemaccording to embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of a capacitive sensor system with anelectronic module according to embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 8 illustration of a capacitive sensor system with an electronicmodule according to embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 9 shows a flowchart of a method for providing feedback aboutrespiratory activity to an individual wearing a garment with a breathsensor module.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention will now be described in detail with reference toembodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

The methods and systems discussed above are further described below. Thefigures below may apply to both the method and system embodiments of theinvention. While capacitive sensor systems are described, the variousmethods and systems described herein may be applied to other types ofsensor systems, for example, resistive, inductive, etc.

Turning to FIGS. 1A and 1B, individual 1 is shown using a garment 2,particularly a sports bra, with breath sensor module 10, includingelectronic module 20 and stretchable sensor 100. As shown in FIG. 1A,the breath sensor module 10 or electronic module 20 may be coupled todata or charging system 30, for example, to download sensor data orcharge the electronic module. In use, however, data or charging system30 may be wireless such that individual 1 is free to move without theneed for extra components, such as wires or cable connections. Moreover,is some embodiments, charging system 30 is standalone, and the breathsensor module 10 does not include a transmitter or a receiver configuredto transmit or receive data outside of the breath sensor module.Additionally, breath sensor module 10 and electronic module 20 may notinclude a battery, and instead simply use a capacitive sensor system asdescribed herein as energy storage, recharging through inductive orcapacitive charging. In this way, there may be a high charging rate,e.g. approximately a 15 second charge provides approximately 3-4 hoursof use.

As described generally above, the garments described herein overcomemany prior challenges with designing effective but unobtrusivemonitoring garments. What is needed are athletic activity training, andcoaching, systems and methods having improved capabilities over existingsystems, thus offering individuals engaged in athletic activities andother interested observers better tools to improve their performancethrough feedback. In this regard, sensors such as breath sensor module10, integrated within garments, offer an advantage, especially withregard to base layers of clothing worn close to the skin, by providingproperly fitting garments that move with the body, allowing sensors tocollect accurate and precise data, without being overly intrusive ordistracting.

For example, during yoga practice, mindfulness of breath is particularlyimportant to individuals engaged in the activity. Individual's breathingimpacts their performance biometrics, and can affect their performancein the activity. Additionally, breath control is one of the pieces of anactivity that an individual can most easily control, but it is difficultto obtain instruction on, especially if an individual is engaged in agroup activity or class, such as a yoga class. An instructor is unableto tell if an individual is breathing, or inhaling at the right time,consistently, or in a regular pattern. It is difficult to determine thatan individual is holding their breath, and remind them to breathe. Inthis regard, breath sensor module 10 may operate to remind theindividual to breathe if the individual has stopped to breathe, oridentify irregular breathing patterns such that it reminds theindividual to normalize or regulate their breathing. This is especiallytrue with activities that require a great deal of focus, such aschallenging yoga poses.

Indeed, breath sensor module 10 may be completely local, such that itdoes not require a phone, smart watch, or any additional external deviceto operate during use to distract the individual further from theiractivity. In this way, breath sensor module 10 allows the individual tomaintain focus and engagement on the activity, while being provided witha gentle reminder to be cognizant of breathing regularly, even duringchallenging activity. To be sure, the embodiments described herein maynot provide a suggested rhythm, or pattern, such as a metronome. Rather,the breath sensor module 10 is generally only designed to providereminders to breathe if an individual has not taken a breath after acertain period of time, or if the breath sensor module 10 recognizes anabnormal breathing pattern. This is a less intrusive way to remind anindividual to breathe.

With this background, as described above, FIG. 1 shows garment 2including a breath sensor module10. Garment 2 is configured as anathletic bra, in some embodiments. Other forms or variations of garment2 are contemplated, such that a breath sensor module 10 may monitor anindividual's breath.

As shown in the FIGS., breath sensor module 10 includes a stretchablesensor 50 configured to respond to at least one of expansion andcontraction of a torso of an individual wearing garment 2. The breathsensor module 10 also may include an electronics module 20, whichincludes, for example, a processor and a haptic feedback device. Inresponse to the processor determining that the individual's breathingmeets predetermined criteria based on the response of stretchable sensor50, the haptic feedback device produces haptic feedback such that theindividual is reminded to breathe. In this way, the individual maycontinue focus on the activity at hand, e.g., yoga practice. Further, inone embodiment, the breath sensor module 10 does not include atransmitter or a receiver configured to transmit or receive data outsideof breath sensor module 10. As discussed above, this allows forstreamlined design and use, and less-intrusive reminders to theindividual wearing garment 2, without the complexities of signaltransmission or receiving. In this embodiment, no smartphone, smartwatch, screen notification, etc. is required, and therefore distractionsto the individual are minimized, allowing them to focus their effort onthe athletic task at hand. However, in other embodiments, the breathsensor module may be capable operating in two different modes: one modewithout the support of an additional external device, and one mode withthe support of an additional external device. These embodiments give theuser the option of enabling or disabling the ability to connect withthese external devices.

In some embodiments, the predetermined criteria consists of adetermination that the individual has not taken a breath within apre-defined time threshold. In some embodiments, the predeterminedcriteria consists of a determination that the individual is notbreathing in a regular pattern. The haptic feedback is a vibrationpattern in some embodiments. The haptic feedback may include auditoryfeedback, subtle such that the individual is the only one to hear it. Insome embodiments, the wherein the breath sensor module does not includean audible output or visual output configured to provide feedback toremind the individual to breathe. Further, the electronics module 20 isseparable from the breath sensor module 10. In this regard, ability tolaunder garment 2 is improved, and more flexible charging of theelectronics module 20 is possible (i.e., the individual may continuewearing the garment while electronics 20 module is charging). In someembodiments, the haptic feedback may progressively intensify, if theindividual's breathing does not resume a regular pattern, or if theindividual continues to not take a breath. This feature may aid inbreaking the individual's concentration in order to sufficiently remindthem to breath, with the haptic feedback resuming a normal intensity ona subsequent event. In this way, garment 2 coupled with breath sensormodule 10 strikes a balance between unintrusive feedback andeffectiveness at gaining an individual's attention to remind them tobreathe.

The electronics module 20 may include a switch operable by theindividual to begin monitoring of the breath by the stretchable sensor50. For example, it may be a toggle switch, or the breath sensor module10 may also be configured as an input, e.g., the individual may tap apattern or press on the sensor itself for a predetermined amount oftime. Electronics module 20 may be programmed to recognize thesepatterns or duration as commands to begin monitoring, start monitoring,change feedback intensity, etc. In some embodiments, automatic detectionof an individual wearing the garment 2 is what will indicate to theelectronics module 20 to begin monitoring of the breath by thestretchable sensor 50. The user interface of breath sensor module 10 isthus intuitive, without complex pairing between multiple devices, useraccounts, servers, etc. The garment 2 thus provides a personalized,private experience to the individual, without a complex interface.

The garment 2 includes a band of elastic material 21 configured toencircle the torso of the individual when garment 2 is worn by theindividual. As configured, stretchable sensor 50 then extendslongitudinally along the band, which aids in detecting the expansion orcontraction (or both of the individual's torso). In some embodiments,breath sensor module 10 detects the change point from inhaling toexhaling, or vice versa. In this way, auto detection is possible, thatis, the individual does not have to “tell” the garment to beginmonitoring. The electronics module 20 is encapsulated in fabric ofgarment 2 in some embodiments. It may be stitched directly into garment2, or may be encapsulated in a pocket, for example. In this way,electronics module 20 is not visible from the exterior of the garmentwhen the individual is wearing it, in some embodiments. This alsoprovides an aesthetic appeal of the garment, camouflaging theelectronics so as not to detract from the appearance of the garment.

Some embodiments are directed to a respiration monitoring system,including garment 2 and stretchable sensor 50. The stretchable sensor 50is attached to garment 20. Additionally, a processor is operativelycoupled to the sensor; and a breath sensor module 10 is operativelycoupled to the processor. The stretchable sensor 50 is configured totransmit a non-transitory respiration activity signal to the processor,and in response to the respiration activity signal the processordetermines that a predetermined criteria is met. Further, in response todetermining that the predetermined criteria is met, the processor causesthe breath sensor module to provide immediate haptic feedback to theindividual wearing the garment. In streamlining this construction, anddistinct from conventional approaches, these features contribute to areduced cost of manufacture, and easier manufacturing/assembly of afinished garment. Further, without complex electronics and transmission,there is a marked power consumption compared to conventional monitoringgarments.

Some embodiments are directed to a method for providing feedback aboutrespiratory activity to an individual wearing a garment (e.g., garmentwith a breath sensor module). Such a method is illustrated in FIG. 9,for example, starting with operation 900. At operation 900, the methodincludes sensing an event indicating a start of monitoring of theindividual's respiratory activity. At operation 902, the method includesmonitoring the individual's respiratory activity, and at operation 904,the method includes determining that the individual's breathing meetspredetermined criteria based on the monitoring. In response todetermining that a pre-defined respiratory event occurred, the methodfurther includes (at operation 906, providing immediate feedback to theuser through the breath sensor module. As above, the breath sensormodule does not include a transmitter or a receiver configured totransmit or receive data outside of the breath sensor module, in someembodiments. In some embodiments, the predetermined criteria consists ofa determination that the individual has not taken a breath within apre-defined time threshold. In some embodiments, the event sensedcomprises one of a user input, determining that the user is breathing,and detection of the garment being worn. In some embodiments, theimmediate feedback is haptic feedback in the form of a vibrationpattern. In some embodiments, the method includes operation 908, sensingan event indicating a finish of monitoring of the individual'srespiratory activity (e.g., receiving a user input indicating a finishof monitoring of the individual's respiratory activity, detecting thatthe garment is no longer being worn, etc.). The electronics module isseparable from the breath sensor module, in some embodiments. In someembodiments, the garment comprises an athletic bra, and the electronicsmodule is encapsulated in the fabric of the garment such that it is notvisible from an exterior of the garment when the individual is wearingit.

Strain sensors in general are used to measure strain on an object. Insome instances, a common type of strain gauge consists of an insulatingflexible backing which supports a metallic foil pattern. The gauge isattached to the object by a suitable adhesive. As the object isdeformed, the foil is also deformed, causing its electrical resistanceto change. This resistance change, usually measured using a Wheatstonebridge, is related to the strain by the quantity known as the gaugefactor.

Capacitance is the ability of a system to store an electric charge, thatis, the ratio of the charge in a system to the corresponding change inits electric potential. Further, in the case of a parallel platecapacitor, capacitance is directly proportional to the surface area ofthe conductor plates and inversely proportional to the separationdistance between the plates. That is, if the area of the conductorplates are increased, a capacitance measurement increases. Similarly, ifthe separation distance between the plates is decreased, a capacitancemeasurement increases. Other configurations of capacitive sensors relyon capacitance changing based on particular geometrical relationsbetween components changing. Thus, certain dimensional relationshipsbetween components may be applied as above to correlate change incapacitance with a change in strain. This is in contrast toresistive-strain sensor applications. Compared to capacitiveapplications, resistance based sensors generally suffer from high levelsof hysteresis and high levels of signal noise.

As further described below, in some embodiments, the stretchable sensor50 is a capacitive sensor. As described herein, the stretchable sensor50 (e.g., capacitive sensor) may include a stretchable substrate, afirst conductor assembly disposed on the substrate, and a secondconductor assembly disposed on the substrate and positioned above thefirst conductor assembly such that the second conductor assemblyoverlaps the first conductor assembly. Advantageously, a connectionbetween the stretchable sensor and the electronics module includes astrain relief member configured to isolate the stretchable sensor suchthat it measures only the stretching of the sensor in a directionconfigured to measure the breathing of the individual. This helps to aidin removing concern about motion artifacts, e.g., the requirement forcompensation due to difference in individual posture, for example whenin different yoga poses.

The repeated stresses on stretchable sensor 50, coupled with the needfor a robust garment that can withstand repeated laundering, benefitsfrom improvements related to stretchable sensors in general. Severalsuch improvements are now described with reference to the figures.

As shown in FIG. 2, stretchable sensor 50 employed by breath sensormodule 10 may include a stretchable sensor such as capacitive sensorsystem 100, including a substrate, e.g., stretchable substrate 102. Asshown, substrate 102 may be operatively coupled with capacitive area104, formed for example with conductive ink. As described below, withreference to FIG. 5, capacitive sensor systems disclosed may include atleast two conductor assemblies, for example, conductor assembly 500 andconductor assembly 600, disposed below conductor assembly 500, whichdefine capacitive area 104. Further detail of the construction andlayering of the conductor assemblies into a finished capacitive sensorsystem, including substrate structure is provided below, with referenceto FIG. 5.

Capacitive area 104 may extend along a stretching direction of substrate102, such that when an individual moves along the stretching direction,the area of capacitive area 104 changes, which results in a change incapacitance. As shown, in some embodiments, capacitive sensor system 100includes leads 106/108 that are screen printed in the same way ascapacitive area 104, and extend substantially perpendicular tocapacitive area 104. Leads 106/108 may include terminal ends 110/112,that connect to connection pad 114, such that the electrical signal(e.g., change in capacitance that may be converted to a strainmeasurement) from the sensor may be transmitted through the system to,for example, an electronic module (not shown).

As above, capacitance in a parallel plate capacitor is calculated as thearea of the capacitive plates divided by the distance between them,multiplied by a permittivity constant. In this regard, a measuredcapacitance change due to stretching the sensor and thus changing thecapacitive area 104, for known permittivity and constant or estimateddistance between layers of conductor assemblies 500/600, strain may besensed or calculated based on the change in the capacitive area 104.

As shown in FIG. 2, during repeated use, the printed sensor layers incapacitive area 104 may develop cracks or fissures, due to repeatedstrain cycling, prolonged strain, or large stress magnitudes. Variousfactors contribute to the formation of cracks or fissures, includingdirection of strain, material or manufacturing variation, number ofcycles, length of strain, types of or magnitudes of stress, etc. Thisdecreases the effective capacitive area 104 as the circuit becomesincomplete, and may reduce accuracy of the sensor or destroy the sensorcompletely, as it cuts off a large amount of capacitive area 104 fromthe ultimate sensor circuit.

As shown in FIG. 3, in some embodiments, capacitive sensor 200 includesmany of the same components as capacitive sensor system 100, such assubstrate 202, capacitive area 204, leads 206/208 that extendsubstantially perpendicular to capacitive area 204. Leads 206/208 mayinclude terminal ends 210/212 that connect to connection pad 214.Additionally, in some embodiments, capacitive sensor 200 includesredundancy member 216. Redundancy member 216 may include generallyserpentine peaks 218 and troughs 220, and may be printed in the samemanner as capacitive area 204. Redundancy member 216 and capacitive area204 are operatively and structurally coupled at junctions 222. In someembodiments, redundancy member 216 may be operatively and structurallycoupled to one or more of the conductor assemblies 500/600, at junctions222. Redundancy member 216 may include lead 224 that connects to lead206 or 208, for example. In some embodiments, redundancy member 216connects directly to connection pad 214.

In some embodiments the first and second leads 206/208 may extendsubstantially parallel to one another. In some embodiments, first andsecond leads 206/208 may extend such that they do not overlap oneanother, in contrast to the capacitive area 204, where conductorassemblies 500/600 may overlap one another.

In some embodiments, redundancy member 216 is configured to absorbstress in the stretching direction. As shown, even if capacitive sensor200 develops cracks or fissures through capacitive area 204 throughrepetitive strain cycling, the connection to the overall circuit is notcompletely disrupted because the capacitive area is still coupled viaredundancy member 216 at junctions 222. Advantageously, the generallyserpentine structure including peaks 218 and troughs 220 lend greaterflexibility to the printed layers, and resist the development of cracksand fissures over repeated strain cycling. In some embodiments, thecurved nature of the generally serpentine structure inducesbending/buckling out of plane relative to the general plane of thesensor, which increases strain relief and avoids formation of fissuresor cracks due to material fatigue from either strain cycling or largestress magnitudes. In some embodiments the conductor assemblies 500/600have a longitudinal configuration extending in a stretching direction.In some embodiments, redundancy member 216 has a serpentineconfiguration, including at least a serpentine peak and a serpentinetrough. In some embodiments, redundancy member 216 is coupled to the oneof the conductor assemblies 500/600 via junction 222 coupled to theserpentine trough.

As used herein, “serpentine” includes waveform patterns of constant orvariable amplitudes, generally sinusoidal patterns, curvilinear forms,“horseshoe” type waveforms where the peaks and troughs are nested nextto one another, etc.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, in some embodiments, first conductor assembly600 is disposed on the substrate, and second conductor assembly 500 isdisposed on the substrate and above the first conductor assembly suchthat the second conductor assembly generally overlaps the firstconductor assembly. In some embodiments, a first lead 312 is positionedat a terminal end of the first conductor assembly 600, and a second lead310 is positioned at a terminal end of the second conductor assembly 500and offset from the first lead 312. In some embodiments, leads 310/312extend substantially parallel to the one another. In some embodiments,one or more of leads 310/312 extend substantially perpendicular to oneor more of the conductor assemblies. In some embodiments, the firstterminal end of each of the conductor assemblies extend substantiallyparallel to one another. In some embodiments, the first terminal end ofeach of the conductor assemblies is offset from one another. In someembodiments, the second terminal end of each of the conductor assembliesextend substantially parallel to one another. In some embodiments, thesecond terminal end of each of the conductor assemblies is offset fromone another. In some embodiments, the conductor assemblies 600/500 areused as a conductor for other sensors or actuators beyond capacitivesensors. Each of the conductive assemblies or layers as described hereinmay be similarly used for conducting components for other sensors oractuators beyond capacitive sensors.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, in some embodiments, the capacitive area maybe configured as a serpentine structure including peaks 318 and troughs320, taking advantage of additional flexibility in configuration. Asshown, in some embodiments, a first serpentine conductor assembly 600may be disposed on the substrate and having first and second terminalends 312 coupled to the substrate 302, a second serpentine conductorassembly 500 disposed above and overlapping the first conductor assembly600 and having first and second terminal ends 310 coupled to thesubstrate, wherein a terminal end of the first conductor assembly 600 isoffset from the corresponding terminal end of the second conductorassembly 500. In some embodiments, the serpentine structure may have apredetermined frequency, dimensions, pitch, etc. In some embodiments,these dimensions may vary along the length of sensor 300, or may beconstant.

To illustrate the general layering structure of capacitive sensorsystems 100, 200, and 300, FIG. 5 shows a partial exploded view of anexemplary layering structure according to an embodiment of variouscapacitive sensor systems as disclosed herein. As shown, capacitivesensor systems 100, 200, and 300 may include at least two conductorassemblies, for example, conductor assembly 500 and conductor assembly600, disposed below conductor assembly 500. As shown, each conductorassembly may be configured with multiple layers, for example, a layer ofconductive ink 606/506, such as silver ink, may be followed with anintermediate layer of conductive ink 604/504, such as carbon ink. Insome embodiments, an insulation layer 602/502 may be disposed aboveintermediate layer 604/504. In some embodiments, the number ofconductive layers, type of material, order of materials, etc., may bevaried. With reference to embodiments including redundancy member 216,in some embodiments, redundancy member 216 may be formed only in some ofthe particular layers of conductor assemblies 500/600. In someembodiments, redundancy member 216 may include different geometries atdifferent layers of conductor assemblies 500/600.

In some embodiments, the base layer of the conductive assembly smoothsthe printing surface for subsequent layers. In general, carbon layerstend to me more stable, durable, and washable, but have lowerconductivity. In contrast, silver layers are less durable but offerrelatively higher conductivity at the expense of increased cost. In someembodiments, layers including carbon are used to protect layersincluding silver, and may also lower cost. Additionally, other types oflayers, such as silver-silver chloride may improve certain types ofadditional physiological signals, such as EMG or ECG signals. In someembodiments, insulation layers are printed to reduce the number of filmsneeded, or to extend the performance of the films, or improve theperformance of the capacitive sensor. In some embodiments, insulation ispositioned between adjacent conductive layers. In some embodiments,insulation is positioned between capacitive assemblies and othercapacitive or conductive bodies, (e.g., the body of a subject, a sweatyfabric).

In some embodiments, multiple layers of conductors or conductiveassemblies reduce signal noise generated from the body. In someembodiments, multiple layers of conductors or conductive assemblies maybe used as an input sensor, such as a touch sensor.

As shown, in some embodiments, the layers of each of the conductorassemblies may be separately printed, for example, screen printed or inkjet printed, as traces disposed on top of each other in layers, prior tointegration with the garment. In some embodiments, the layers areprinted (e.g., screen printed, ink-jet printed, direct deposition,stenciling, etc.) and then cut (e.g., laser cut, die cut, etc.) out totheir desired shape prior to integration. In some embodiments, a filmlayer 608 may be used as a bottom-most layer on one or more of theconductor assemblies 500/600, acting as an effective platform for one ormore of the conductor assemblies. In some embodiments, film layer 608may be, for example a polyurethane film. In this regard, film layer 608is configured as a stretchable layer. In some embodiments, film layer608 may be predisposed on substrate 302. In some embodiments, film layer608 may be applied to substrate 302 once the conductor assemblies havebeen printed onto it. In some embodiments, the conductor assemblies500/600 may be stacked, and then applied to substrate 302, such as afabric for a garment, for example, through heat pressing.

Turning to FIG. 6, to illustrate additional features along with generallayering structure of capacitive sensor systems 100, 200, and 300, FIG.6 shows a partial exploded view of an exemplary layering structure(similar to FIG. 5) according to an embodiment of various capacitivesensor systems as disclosed herein. As shown, capacitive sensor systems100, 200, and 300 may include at least two conductor assemblies, forexample, conductor assembly 500 and conductor assembly 600, disposedbelow conductor assembly 500. FIG. 6 additionally shows exemplaryfeedback module 700. In some embodiments, feedback module 700 includes,for example, haptic motor 702, which may provide haptic feedback to anindividual. In some embodiments, a haptic circuit 704, e.g., a printedcircuit board, may be operatively coupled to haptic motor 702, as wellas the capacitive sensor system. This coupling occurs throughconnections 706, for example. Connections 706 include, for example,conductive adhesive. In some embodiments, other connection types may beused, for example, soldering, mechanical connectors, and the like. Insome embodiments, feedback module 700 includes a housing 708. In someembodiments, housing 708 may be an elastomer overmolded assembly,encasing the feedback module 700. In some embodiments, housing 708 maybe other materials, for example, a plastic, metal, or fabric material.

With additional technical advantages described with respect to a layeredconfiguration, an additional strain relief innovation is described,along with further aesthetic developments, beginning with FIG. 7. InFIG. 7, a sensor system is shown, which in some embodiments includes astretchable sensor 50 (e.g., a stretchable capacitive sensor asdisclosed above), an electronics module 20 in a housing coupled to thesensor 50, and a strain relief member 40 extending from the stretchablesensor and coupling to the electronics module. In some embodiments,module 20 may be encapsulated in a substrate, or in a film layer such asthe film layer described above. In this regard, module 20 may beconfigured to be used without ports or jacks on the outer surface of themodule. When integrated with a garment, for example, module 20 may bewholly encapsulated in a fabric, such that it is hidden from view. Insome embodiments, strain relief member 40 extends off axis to thestretching direction of sensor 50. In this regard, strain relief member40 may be configured such that sensor 50 does not respond to movement ofthe strain relief member 40. As shown, the connections to the strainrelief member 40 and the electronics module 20 (or connections to thestrain relief member 40 and sensor 50) are positioned such that thetrace is allowed to bend/buckle out of plane relative to the generalplane of the electronics module 20 or sensor 50, thereby increasingstrain relief. In some embodiments, this avoids formation of fissures orcracks due to material fatigue from either strain cycling or largestress magnitudes.

Turning to FIG. 8, an top view embodiment of a sensor system is shownsimilar to FIG. 7, which in some embodiments includes a stretchablesensor 50 (e.g., a stretchable capacitive sensor as disclosed above), anelectronics module 20 in a housing coupled to the sensor 50, and astrain relief member 40 extending from the stretchable sensor andcoupling to the electronics module. In some embodiments, as shown inFIG. 8, strain relief member 40 may extend substantially perpendicularlyto a longitudinal direction from stretchable sensor 50 (e.g., directionthe sensor is designed to stretch and thus measure strain) at thelocation it couples to the electronics module. In some embodiments, thefilm layers (as described above) may include a cutout pattern, such thatthe coupling connection from the sensor 50, strain relief member 40, andelectronics module 20 are flush with each other, such that the sensorcomponents lay flat. In this regard, conductive adhesive portions (usedin connections 706, for example) may be applied with even pressure.

Advantageously, as opposed to smart phone or smart watch systems,integrated garment sensor systems such as the sensor 50 coupled withmodule 20 may give individuals freedom to be mindful of theirperformance without additional distractions. In some embodiments, datamay be captured and uploaded and reviewed later, after an activity,which may aid in the individual staying mindful throughout theiractivity. Also, when coupled with a haptic module, gentle hapticfeedback may be given to the individual during the activity, without theneed for viewing a screen, or listening for audio feedback, for example.Additionally, being able to focus generally on the activity at hand,rather than raising an arm or looking down, avoids introducinginefficient body positioning or form into the athletic activity. In someembodiments, the sensor may function as an actuator, or input device,sending signals to module 20 when particular contact is detected.

In some embodiments, the breath sensor module 10 is used to detectchanges in an individual's direction of motion. Sensor module 10according to the present invention can also be worn by individuals andused to detect and/or track other motions such as, for example, motionsassociated with push-ups, pull-ups, weightlifting, diving, gymnastics,et cetera.

By using the sensor module 10 described above, embodiments of thepresent invention may advantageously enable the individual 1 to obtaintimely feedback during an activity about the motion of the individual's1 body.

While various embodiments of the present invention are described in thegeneral context of yoga, the present invention is not so limited and maybe applied in a variety of different sports or athletic activitiesincluding, for example, running, sports of soccer (i.e., football),basketball baseball, bowling, boxing, cricket, cycling, football (i.e.,American football), golf, hockey, lacrosse, rowing, rugby, running,skateboarding, skiing, surfing, swimming, table tennis, tennis, orvolleyball, or during training sessions related thereto.

Various aspects of the present invention, or any parts or functionsthereof, may be implemented using hardware, software, firmware, tangiblenon-transitory computer readable or computer usable storage media havinginstructions stored thereon, or a combination thereof and may beimplemented in one or more computer systems or other processing systems.As discussed, program products, methods, and systems for providingtraining services of the present invention can include any softwareapplication executed by one or more electronic devices device having atleast one processor and memory. Embodiments of the present invention maybe software executed by a processor, firmware, hardware or anycombination thereof in a computing device.

References to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, “an exampleembodiment”, “some embodiments”, etc., indicate that the embodimentdescribed may include a particular feature, structure, orcharacteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include theparticular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrasesare not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when aparticular feature, structure, or characteristic is described inconnection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within theknowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure,or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or notexplicitly described.

The term “invention” or “present invention” as used herein is anon-limiting term and is not intended to refer to any single embodimentof the particular invention but encompasses all possible embodiments asdescribed in the application.

Embodiments have been described above with the aid of functionalbuilding blocks illustrating the implementation of specified functionsand relationships thereof. The boundaries of these functional buildingblocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenience of thedescription. Alternate boundaries can be defined so long as thespecified functions and relationships thereof are appropriatelyperformed.

The description of the specific embodiments of the system described withreference to the figures will so fully reveal the general nature of theinvention that others can, by applying knowledge within the skill of theart, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specificembodiments, without undue experimentation, without departing from thegeneral concept of the present invention.

While various embodiments of the present invention have been describedabove, they have been presented by way of example only, and notlimitation. It should be apparent that adaptations and modifications areintended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of thedisclosed embodiments, based on the teaching and guidance presentedherein. It therefore will be apparent to one skilled in the art thatvarious changes in form and detail can be made to the embodimentsdisclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of thepresent invention. The elements of the embodiments presented above arenot necessarily mutually exclusive, but may be interchanged to meetvarious needs as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art.

It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology used hereinis for the purpose of description and not of limitation. The breadth andscope of the present invention should not be limited by any of theabove-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only inaccordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

It is to be appreciated that the Detailed Description section, and notthe Summary and Abstract sections, is intended to be used to interpretthe claims. The Summary and Abstract sections may set forth one or morebut not all exemplary embodiments of the present invention ascontemplated by the inventor(s), and thus, are not intended to limit thepresent invention and the appended claims in any way.

The breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited byany of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be definedonly in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

The claims in the instant application are different than those of theparent application or other related applications. The Applicanttherefore rescinds any disclaimer of claim scope made in the parentapplication or any predecessor application in relation to the instantapplication. The Examiner is therefore advised that any such previousdisclaimer and the cited references that it was made to avoid, may needto be revisited. Further, the Examiner is also reminded that anydisclaimer made in the instant application should not be read into oragainst the parent application.

Further details of the noted systems and methods are set forth inco-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 15/862,138 [Attorney Docket No.2483.2850000], filed concurrently herewith, which is incorporated byreference herein in its entirety for all purposes.

1. (canceled)
 2. A breath sensor comprising: a stretchable sensorconfigured to respond to an individual's respiratory activity; and anelectronics module comprising: a processor; and a feedback device,wherein in response to the processor determining that the individual'srespiratory activity meets predetermined criteria based on the responseof the stretchable sensor, the feedback device is configured to producefeedback to remind the individual to breathe, wherein the breath sensordoes not include a transmitter or a receiver and is configured tooperate without communication with any external device.
 3. The breathsensor of claim 2, wherein the electronic module does not include abattery.
 4. The breath sensor of claim 3, wherein the electronics modulefurther comprises a capacitive sensor, wherein the capacitive sensor isconfigured for energy storage.
 5. The breath sensor of claim 4, whereinthe capacitive sensor is configured to recharge through inductive orcapacitive charging.
 6. The breath sensor of claim 2, wherein thefeedback provided by the feedback device is a vibration pattern.
 7. Thebreath sensor of claim 6, wherein the feedback device if configured suchthat the vibration pattern intensifies if the individual's respiratoryactivity does not resume a regular pattern or if the individualcontinues to not take a breath.
 8. The breath sensor of claim 2, whereinthe breath sensor is configured to activate upon being tapped or atouched by the individual.
 9. The breath sensor of claim 2, wherein thebreath sensor is configured to automatically detect being worn by theindividual, and the breath sensor is configured to begin monitoring theindividual's respiratory activity when the breath sensor detects beingworn.
 10. The breath sensor of claim 2, wherein the breath sensor isencapsulated in a garment such that the breath sensor is configured tonot be visible from an exterior of the garment when the individual iswearing the garment.
 11. The breath sensor of claim 2, wherein thebreath sensor is configured such that it does not include an audibleoutput or visual output to provide feedback to remind the individual tobreathe.
 12. The breath sensor of claim 2, wherein the predeterminedcriteria consists of a determination that the individual has not taken abreath within a pre-defined time threshold.
 13. The breath sensor ofclaim 2, wherein the predetermined criteria consists of a determinationthat the individual is not breathing in a predefined pattern.
 14. Thebreath sensor of claim 2, wherein the electronics include a switchoperable by the individual to begin monitoring with the stretchablesensor.
 15. A method for providing feedback about respiratory activityto an individual, the method comprising: providing a breath sensorhaving a processor, a feedback device, and a stretchable sensor, whereinthe stretchable sensor is configured to respond the individual'srespiratory activity; sensing a respiratory event via the stretchablesensor, the respiratory event indicating a start of monitoring of theindividual's respiratory activity; monitoring, without exchanging datawith any external device, the individual's respiratory activity via thestretchable sensor; determining via the processor, without exchangingdata with any external device, that the individual's breathing meetspredetermined criteria based on the monitoring; and providing feedbackfrom the feedback device to the individual in response to determiningthat the individual's breathing meets the predetermined criteria. 16.The method of claim 15, further comprising: receiving a user inputindicating an ending of monitoring of the individual's respiratoryactivity.
 17. The method of claim 15, further comprising recharging acapacitive sensor of the breath sensor through inductive or capacitivecharging.
 18. The method of claim 15, wherein the feedback provided bythe feedback device is a vibration pattern.
 19. The method claim 18,wherein the vibration pattern intensifies if the individual'srespiratory activity does not resume a regular pattern or if theindividual continues to not take a breath.
 20. A respiration monitoringsystem comprising: a stretchable sensor configured to respond to anindividual's respiratory activity and transmit a non-transitoryrespiration activity signal; a processor operatively coupled to thestretchable sensor and configured to receive the non-transitoryrespiration activity signal; and a feedback device operatively coupledto the processor, wherein in response to the non-transitory respirationactivity signal the processor determines that a predetermined criteriais met and causes the feedback device to provide feedback to theindividual, wherein the stretchable sensor, processor, and feedbackdevice are configured to operate together without communication with anyexternal device, transmitter, or receiver.
 21. The respirationmonitoring system of claim 20, wherein the stretchable sensor iswirelessly coupled to the processor and the processor is wirelesslycoupled to the feedback device.